[48] We may contrast with these examples the following illustration of punishing the gods and demi-gods for tolerating a tempest. It is quoted by Herbert Spencer in his “Study of Sociology,” from Captain Burton’s account of Goa to show how awe of power sways men’s religious beliefs:—
“A pot of oil with a lighted wick was placed every night by the half-bred Portuguese Indians, before the painted doll, the patron saint of the boat in which we sailed from Goa. One evening, as the weather appeared likely to be squally, we observed that the usual compliment was not offered to the patron, and had the curiosity to inquire why. ‘Why,’ vociferated the tindal (captain), indignantly, ‘if that chap can’t keep the sky clear, he shall have neither oil nor wick from me, d—n him!’ ‘But I should have supposed that in the hour of danger you would have paid him more than usual attention?’ ‘The fact is, Sahib, I have found out that the fellow is not worth his salt: the last time we had an infernal squall with him on board, and if he does not keep this one off, I’ll just throw him overboard, and take to Santa Caterina; hang me if I don’t—the brother-in-law!’” [Brother-in-law, a common term of insult.]
[49] Primitive Semitic Religion.
[50] Journal of the Anthropological Institute, Vol. IV.
[51] W. Crooke: Natives of Northern India.
[52] Bombay Gazetteer (Kathiawar), Vol. VIII.
[53] Folklore Notes, Vol. I—Gujarat.
[54] Ibid., Vol. II—Konkan.
[55] Ethnology in Folklore.
[56] Knowlson: The Origins of Popular Superstitions and Customs.